Can any shotgun shells be reloaded?

Shooter Mac

September 28, 2002 22:01

I was just wondering if any shotgun shells can be reloaded? Does it matter, if they are high or low brass? Can you reload low brass shells with a larger load with more powder and shot? How many times can you reload a shotgun shell?

Thanks

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  Alpine

  September 28, 2002 23:29

  Generally yes. However number of folds in crimp and whether is has a paper base wad are just some of the factors. I have the reloader set up for AA and that is all I reload. High and low brass (most shells are plated steel, not brass) is less of a determining factor than wad, powder, shot weight. Stick to a reloading book table. I will throw away hulls when I see cracks forming around crimp / folds / side of hull (I have seen this lately in the AA's). If possible have someone that has some experince show you how they do it and exercise caution and safety when reloading. Also the area where you reload should be free of distractions (you will produce less duds or overcharges that way).
  
  "If you ain't got pictures, I wasn't there."

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  Iconoclast

  September 29, 2002 06:25

  Mac, virtually all shotshells can be reloaded provided you can find the proper components. However, because of the almost infinite variations in hulls & other items, my personal experience / opinion is that unless one shoots a *lot* of shotgun shells of the same mfg & type, it's really not worth the effort. Or if you want to load something not available commercially / for a reasonable price. Lot of time, lot of variations, lot of inventory, slower to set up, more adjustments, etc., etc., etc. For me, at least, the whole process is more complex / more of a hassle than loading metallics. I have a quality press I bought 20+ years ago, all the accessories, and I still don't use the bloody thing even though I only hunt birds. 'Course the mandated steel shot BS impacted this a lot, also.
  
  If you do go this route, be sure to get a good manual & follow it religiously; it is a lot easier to screw up (JMHO) on shotshells than on metallics.

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  randymagic

  September 29, 2002 09:44

  quote:
  I was just wondering if any shotgun shells can be reloaded? Does it matter, if they are high or low brass? Can you reload low brass shells with a larger load with more powder and shot? How many times can you reload a shotgun shell?
  
  Thanks
  
  
  Lyman's book on shotshell reloading will answer your questions far better than I can. The free recipies at alliantpowder.com and hodgdon.com also spell out the load possibilities with specific hulls.
  
  Most any hull "can" be reloaded-- however, it is difficult to get good crimps and consistent results with promo ("Super Speed") or other cheapie hulls.
  
  High / low brass makes no difference . . . the low brass hulls are easier to reload. Remington STS hulls can be reloaded 25 times plus . . . and are my favorite.

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